Jack Ward
HAVE you entered Virtual Runner’s December challenge? If the answer is no, don’t panic, because you still have a whole week to enter!
The December challenge is a chance for runners of all abilities to push themselves as you can choose between a goal of 25, 50, 100 or 200 kilometres.
Tis’ the season to be jolly, but it’s very hard to be jolly when your running route is covered in ice and your chestnuts are frozen in the sub-zero temperatures, let alone the stress of Christmas shopping.
So, although you have a month to complete the challenge, consistency in your running will be key to clock up those kilometres. So, here’s our top tips to staying consistent in the busiest month of the year.
- Take Precautions
It’s definitely time to dig out your thermals. Whether they’re plain back or an embarrassing representation of superman, thermal layers are vital. You need to make sure you and your muscles stay nice and warm out in the English tundra. Cold muscles are prone to tears and the last thing you want during the December challenge is to be stuck on the sofa with a hamstring tighter than your Christmas budget. So, make sure to kit up for the occasion.
- Split it up
50 kilometres sounds like a lot to the average runner, but split that up over the course of the month and you’re looking at less than 2 kilometres a day. Try variating your routes as much as possible to make it feel like less of a chore. Think of it as a Christmas dinner that seems invincible, all you need is a break before you go for a second helping. The key is having a good break in between. And on the topic of breaks…
- Recover right
If you’ve managed to brave the bitter temperatures and master regular winter running, your next worry is recovery. If you’re not already cold enough, run yourself an ice cold bath following the comforts of your warm shower. The cold water helps catalyse the repairing of your muscles and will make sure you don’t have an excuse to take a day off. Why sit in and put crosses in sprouts when you can get one step closer to getting your hands on the December medal?
Race entry is £11 with 20% of each ticket going towards the charity ‘Worth Unlimited’. Worth Unlimited are a national christian charity and enterprise which equips and supports everyday people to make the most of their skills and passions.
Hopefully, with the help of these tips you’ll be able to push your running passion to the limit.
ENTER DECEMBER CHALLENGE NOW HERE
Find out more about their charity here at: https://worthunlimited.co.uk
Looking for a 2020 Challenge?
If monthly motivation is your thing, then start again in January to earn the biggest Virtual Runner medal yet! Find out more here now